Phoenix Surveillance Director Encourages Women To Follow Her Lead

Phoenix, AZ — Without community leaders, Phoenix wouldn’t hum along nearly as smoothly as it does. We’d miss their contributions in big and small ways.

Patch has partnered with T-Mobile to recognize these often unsung community leaders and celebrate their contributions.

This submission comes from Jennifer Schwegman, a Phoenix reader who nominated April Stovall.

How do you know this community leader?

She works for a client of mine.

What does this community leader do?

Director of Facilities and Surveillance and Chair of CodeGreen for Harrah's Ak-Chin Casino.

Why do you believe the community leader should be recognized or honored?

April Stovall, director of Facilities and Surveillance for Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, is a self-described Marine Corps brat and pioneer member of the Casa Grande Roller Derby league. She knows how to work hard and crush obstacles. Her motto? “If you’re not falling down, you’re not trying hard enough.”

While roller derby is known for powerful women, April’s start as a security officer in the hospitality industry 23 years ago was just the opposite. In a field dominated by men, April was determined to bring change and encourage women to follow her lead. She conquered new responsibilities moving quickly up the ranks. Her actions led to supervisory roles in surveillance, facilities, technology, construction and environmental services. After completing a successful three-year $250 million expansion project resulting in a 12% revenue increase and positive economic impacts on the community, April was promoted to director in 2021. Leader of CodeGreen, April also champions efforts to reduce the property’s carbon footprint.

April’s 100+ team members appreciate her dedication, work ethic and ability to inspire others. She walks the talk and leads by example. She has great relationships with her team, working alongside them and blowing up obstacles in their way. April has held almost every position that reports to her, so she knows how to support and encourage her team.

April is an active leader and volunteer. She donates time, expertise and compassion to make noteworthy contributions to the community averaging 7.5 volunteer hours a month and financially supporting the following nonprofit organizations: Habitat for Humanity, Valley Humane Society, Teen Challenge, CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates), Caring Hands of Pinal County, United Way, Special Olympics, Against Abuse, and Diana Gregory Foundation.

April saved the property $400K associated with capital projects (2021/2022). Her Code Green and sustainability initiatives saved the property more than $500K (2022).

What's one thing you want everyone to know about the community hero?

Her ongoing commitment to community and the environment is more than lip service. She does what she says and puts action behind her words

This content is brought to our community in partnership with T-Mobile.

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